What Happens to Micro Fiber Cloth in Washing Machines

Microfiber cloth is made from synthetic fibers. It’s a type of textile that has extremely fine threads, making it perfect for cleaning and drying virtually any surface. Microfiber cloths are excellent because they have the ability to attract dirt, dust, and oils from surfaces without damaging them. 

These clothes are also incredibly versatile, thanks to their lightweight and small size. You can use microfiber towels in your car to clean windows or floors, use microfiber mitts while you wash your car, or even launder them in your washing machine if they get soiled with oil or grime.

Since these clothes are made with synthetic fibers, however, you may wonder what happens to micro fiber cloth in washing machines – do they shrink? If so, what can be done about it?

Why You Should Use Microfiber Cloths

Microfiber cloths are great for cleaning your kitchen, bathroom, and laundry. They are affordable and they are easy to use. The only thing you have to keep in mind is that they have a much higher chance of breaking down than other types of clothes.

They won’t last as long because they need more washing than other types of clothes to do.

Microfiber cloths are durable, but they don’t last forever. They can wear out quickly if you don’t use them regularly. Because microfiber is made from natural fibers it does not absorb water, so it won’t dry up as fast as other types of clothes do when used regularly for a few days or weeks.

microfiber cloth
Image Credit: homedepot.com

Do Microfiber Cloths Shrink When Washed

Yes, microfiber cloths are made from synthetic fibers, so they will shrink when you wash them. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to throw out your microfiber clothes every time you wash them. 

This will depend on several factors, including the type of microfiber cloth, the type of detergent, and the washing cycle that you use. When microfiber cloths are exposed to water and heat, they begin to lose their shape and size. This is because synthetic fibers are generally weaker than natural fibers like cotton. 

When microfiber cloths shrink, they can lose up to 50% of their surface area. This can be problematic because it may prevent them from cleaning as effectively as they used to.

How to Stop Microfiber Cloths from Shrinking

To prevent microfiber towels from shrinking, you should first make sure that you’re using a gentle cycle on your washer – many people don’t realize that a lot of detergents are actually very harsh. If you use a high-temperature or high-speed cycle, you’re actually more likely to cause your microfiber towels to shrink. 

Microfiber cloths will last longer and remain effective if you use a gentle cycle. You should also avoid adding too much detergent, as this can also cause the microfiber to shrink. Experts recommend adding between 1-2 tablespoons of detergent per load.

Finally, make sure that your microfiber cloths are completely clean before you wash them. If they are covered in oil or other grime, they will shrink more quickly.

What Happens to Microfiber When it’s Washed

When microfiber cloths are exposed to water and heat, they begin to lose their shape and size. This is because synthetic fibers are generally weaker than natural fibers like cotton. When microfiber cloths shrink, they can lose up to 50% of their surface area. 

This can be problematic because it may prevent them from cleaning as effectively as they used to. In some cases, this can also lead to the formation of pilling – little balls of fabric that stick out from the cloth’s surface. This is actually the result of loose fibers that come loose from the cloth’s surface. 

When this happens, you can expect your microfiber cloths to last for less than 5 washes. However, not all microfiber cloths will shrink and pill. You can minimize the likelihood of this happening by choosing high-quality microfiber towels.

Tips for Washing Microfiber Cloths

If you’re wondering how to wash microfiber cloths, here are a few things to keep in mind: 

  • Make sure that you’re washing your microfiber towels at the right temperature. Experts recommend washing microfiber towels in cold water. The hotter the water, the more likely they are to shrink. 
  • Add very little detergent to your wash cycle. Too much detergent can cause the microfiber to shrink and last less than 5 washes. 
  • Make sure that you’re not overloading your washer. 
  • Make sure your microfiber towels don’t get stuck in the washer’s agitator. If they do, they have a higher chance of getting damaged. 
  • Avoid using bleach when cleaning your microfiber towels. While it may seem like a good idea, bleach can cause the microfiber to shrink and lose its cleaning properties.

Mistakes to Avoid While Washing a Microfiber Cloth

If you want your microfiber clothes to last, avoid doing any of the following: 

  • Don’t agitate your microfiber towels. Make sure that they don’t get caught in the agitator. 
  • Make sure that you’re using the right type of washing machine cycle for your microfiber towels. Some cycles are too harsh for microfiber. 
  • Don’t over-dry your microfiber towels. Overdrying can cause them to shrink and degrade. 
  • Don’t use too much detergent. Excess detergent can cause the microfiber to shrink and lose its cleaning properties. 
  • Don’t over-clean your washer. Over-cleaning can cause the microfiber to dry out and lose its cleaning properties.

Bottom line

Microfiber cloths are an essential part of any cleaning kit. They have the ability to attract dirt, dust, and oils from surfaces without damaging them. They are also incredibly versatile.

You can use microfiber towels to clean windows or floors, use microfiber mitts while you wash your car, or even launder them in your washing machine if they get soiled with oil or grime. Yes, when you wash microfiber towels, they will shrink.

To prevent this, use a gentle cycle, add a very little detergent, and make sure that your towels are completely clean before you wash them.

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